“But isn’t it lonely?”

It’s a fair question. And it deserves an honest answer — not the relentlessly cheerful “solo travel is AMAZING and you’ll LOVE every second of it!” version you’ll find on most travel blogs, but a genuine, nuanced response from people who have been doing this for a long time.

So here it is.

The Honest Answer: It Can Be. Sometimes.

Yes, solo travel can be lonely. Anyone who tells you otherwise is either remarkably extroverted or hasn’t been entirely truthful with you.

There are moments — usually quiet ones — when the absence of a familiar companion is felt acutely. The extraordinary sunset with no one to nudge. The hilarious moment that would have been funnier shared. The dinner table for one in a restaurant full of couples and families.

These moments are real. They happen. And pretending they don’t would be dishonest.

But here’s what’s equally true, and what many people discover only after they actually do it: these moments are far rarer than you expect, far shorter than you fear, and far outweighed by everything else.

Why Solo Travel is Less Lonely Than You Think

You become more open. When you travel with a companion, you exist in a self-contained unit. You talk to each other. You navigate together. You process experiences between yourselves. Other people — local people, fellow travellers, chance encounters — remain largely on the outside.

When you travel alone, that dynamic completely changes. You talk to the person next to you on the train. You ask the café owner for a recommendation. You strike up a conversation with the couple at the next table who turn out to be fascinating. Solo travel makes you genuinely more open to the world — and the world, remarkably, opens back.

The loneliness of travelling with the wrong person is far worse. Many experienced solo travellers will tell you that their loneliest travel experiences weren’t when they were alone — they were when they were travelling with someone whose travel style was completely different from their own. Negotiating every meal, every activity, every wake-up time with someone who wants something different is exhausting and isolating in a way that genuine solitude simply isn’t.

Solitude and loneliness are not the same thing. This is perhaps the most important distinction in the whole conversation. Solitude — chosen, enjoyed aloneness — is genuinely pleasurable. Sitting in a café in a beautiful city with a coffee and a book and nowhere to be. Walking through a market at your own pace, stopping wherever you like, moving on when you’re ready. These are not lonely experiences. They are some of the most contented experiences travel offers.

Loneliness is unwanted isolation. Solitude is chosen peace. Solo travel gives you an extraordinary amount of the second — and far less of the first than you might fear.

When Solo Travel Gets Hard

It’s worth being honest about when solo travel is genuinely more challenging.

Long journeys — a 14-hour flight or a long train journey is easier with company. Audiobooks, podcasts, and a good novel help. So does getting comfortable with your own thoughts.

Illness — being unwell far from home without a companion to help is genuinely harder. This is one area where the support structure of a good group tour makes a meaningful difference.

Special occasions — birthdays, anniversaries, significant personal moments can feel sharper when experienced alone. Planning something meaningful for yourself on those days — a special dinner, a particular experience — makes a real difference.

Dinner — this is the one most solo travellers mention. Lunch alone is fine. Breakfast alone is peaceful. But dinner — particularly in romantic or family-oriented restaurants — can feel conspicuous. The solution many solo travellers swear by: sit at the bar, eat early, or choose casual restaurants where solo dining is completely unremarkable.

The Solution Most Solo Travellers Eventually Find

Here’s what happens with most people who travel solo seriously: they go through a phase of pure independent travel — doing everything alone, proud of the self-sufficiency, loving the freedom — and then they discover small group tours designed specifically for solo travellers.

And they realise it’s the best of both worlds.

You still have your own private room. You still have free time to explore independently. You still have the freedom and flexibility that makes solo travel so appealing. But you also have a group of like-minded people to share meals with, explore alongside, and experience those extraordinary moments with.

The sunset has someone to nudge. The hilarious moment gets laughed at together. The dinner table is full.

And because every single person in the group made the same decision you did — to travel without a traditional companion — the connections that form are genuinely different from the ones you make in mixed groups. There’s a shared understanding, a mutual respect, and a warmth that past travellers consistently describe as one of the unexpected highlights of the journey.

What Our Travellers Say About Loneliness

“It’s the first time I have travelled solo and I was pleasantly surprised to find a bunch of people that all got on so well.” — Wendy

“I found the trip interesting and eye opening. The other travellers on the trip were fabulous and we had a great time together.” Jean, first solo tour

“I had the opportunity to experience things I would never have done by myself. Solo travellers is a fantastic concept.” — Judi

“I need not have worried. It was great and I was very well looked after.” — Maureen, on her first solo tour

“A great bunch of people and I can’t believe how we all had such a fabulous rapport filled with much humour!”

These aren’t people who were extroverts who would have been fine anywhere. Many of them were nervous first-timers who weren’t sure what to expect. What they found was genuine human connection — the kind that makes you book the next tour before you’ve even unpacked from this one.

So — Is Solo Travel Lonely?

Sometimes, briefly, yes. But far less often than you fear. And far less often than the alternative — staying home, waiting for the perfect travel companion who may never materialise, while the world you want to see keeps turning without you.

The people who travel with Two’s a Crowd aren’t people who don’t feel lonely sometimes. They’re people who decided that the occasional quiet moment was a price worth paying for everything else — the freedom, the adventure, the extraordinary destinations, and the remarkable friendships formed along the way.

They travel solo. But never alone.

Ready to Find Your People?

Two’s a Crowd has been creating exclusively solo traveller tours since 2012 — small groups of 10 to 15 like-minded adventurers, your own private room every night, and a dedicated Tour Host with you throughout.

If solo travel loneliness has been holding you back, this is the answer.

Browse our current solo travel tours →

By Ken Morgan, Founder of Two’s a Crowd — Australia’s leading solo travel company since 2012.

The post Is Solo Travel Lonely? The Honest Answer appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

But there’s far more to an East African safari than most people realise before they go. Let us introduce you to three lists that will completely change the way you experience the African bush.

The Big Five: The Icons That Started It All

When people dream of Kenya, the conversation almost always starts with the Big Five. Lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo earned their legendary status not for their size, but for how difficult — and dangerous — they once were to hunt on foot. Today, they are the ultimate wildlife prize for photographers, nature lovers, and adventurous solo travellers seeking something truly unforgettable.

Kenya delivers on the Big Five in spectacular fashion. Watching a lion stretch lazily in the golden grasses of the Maasai Mara, spotting the elusive leopard draped over an acacia branch, or standing quietly as a herd of elephants moves slowly across the plains — these are the moments that make solo travel in Africa feel both deeply personal and profoundly moving.

But the magic of an East Africa safari doesn’t stop with the Big Five — and it certainly doesn’t stop at the Kenyan border.

The Little Five: Safari Secrets for the Curious Traveller

Often overlooked, the Little Five reward those who slow down and look closer — something that solo travellers often do best.

Inspired by their larger, more famous namesakes, the Little Five include:

• Elephant Shrew — a tiny, long-nosed insectivore with enormous eyes and extraordinary speed
• Ant Lion — the larva stage of a delicate flying insect, famous for its cunning pit traps in the sand
• Leopard Tortoise — Africa’s largest tortoise, with a beautifully patterned shell that echoes the spots of its big cat namesake
• Buffalo Weaver — a gregarious bird that builds enormous communal nests in acacia trees
• Rhinoceros Beetle — one of the strongest creatures on earth relative to its size, capable of carrying 850 times its own body weight

Your local safari guide will know exactly where to find them. And there’s something deeply satisfying about spotting a rhinoceros beetle trundling across a dusty track while a real rhino grazes a hundred metres away.

The Noisy Five: The Soundtrack of the African Bush

If the Little Five reward patience, the Noisy Five ensure you never truly feel alone — even on a solo safari.

The lion, hyena, elephant, hippo, and cicada create the unmistakable soundtrack of the African night. Yes, the lion appears in both the Big Five and the Noisy Five — impressive, powerful, and extraordinarily vocal. Few experiences in travel compare to sitting around a campfire as darkness falls and hearing a male lion release a roar that rolls across the plains, fading slowly into the silence.

Then the hyenas begin. And the hippos grunt from the waterways. And the cicadas fill every gap with their extraordinary, relentless chorus.

And here’s a fun safari fact your guide might share: some species of cicada spend up to 16 years underground before emerging for just a few short weeks above the surface. Imagine waiting that long for your moment — and then filling the entire savannah with sound. It’s one of those extraordinary details that makes an East Africa safari endlessly fascinating.

On a small group tour designed specifically for solo travellers, these sounds often form the backdrop to evenings spent sharing stories around the fire with fellow adventurers — that perfect blend of independence and connection that makes solo group travel in Africa so uniquely rewarding.

A Big Five Safari Across Kenya and Tanzania — for Solo Travellers

What makes a Two’s a Crowd East Africa safari so powerful is its scale and variety. From Kenya’s iconic Maasai Mara to Tanzania’s vast Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater — where the highest concentration of wildlife on earth lives within a single volcanic caldera — and the turquoise beaches of Zanzibar, this is Africa at its most extraordinary.

One day you’re marvelling at a Big Five sighting at dawn. The next you’re laughing as your guide points out a tiny rhinoceros beetle in the dust while the distant call of a hyena echoes across the landscape. And the evening after that, you’re floating on the Chobe River in Botswana as hundreds of elephants wade across in front of your boat.

Two’s a Crowd’s East Africa Solo Safari is designed specifically for solo travellers seeking a fully hosted African experience — the ideal balance of comfort, safety, and genuine companionship. You travel solo, but never alone. Your own private room or luxury tent every night. Expert local guides. Carefully selected safari lodges. And a group of like-minded solo adventurers to share every extraordinary moment with.

Because a safari in East Africa isn’t just about what you see. It’s about what you hear, what you notice, and the connections you make along the way.

Ready for Your Own Solo Safari Story?

If an East Africa safari has been on your list for years, this is your moment. Our June 2027 departure takes in Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar over 13 extraordinary days — with the Great Migration in full swing and the dry season delivering peak game viewing conditions.

View the full East Africa Solo Safari itinerary →

Places are limited. Don’t leave it too long.

The post Heard About the Big Five? What About the Noisy Five? appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

Travelling solo doesn’t mean travelling alone. In fact, for a growing number of Australians and New Zealanders, small group tours exclusively for solo travellers have become not just the preferred way to see the world — but genuinely the best way.

Here’s why.

You Get the Freedom of Solo Travel Without the Lonely Bits

Ask anyone who travels independently what they love most about it and you’ll hear the same things: the freedom, the flexibility, the ability to do exactly what you want without negotiating with anyone. Solo travel is liberating in a way that travelling with a partner or group of friends simply isn’t.

But ask the same people what they find hardest and you’ll hear the same things too: the dinners for one. The moments of extraordinary beauty with no one to share them with. The logistics of planning everything yourself. The occasional unease of navigating somewhere unfamiliar alone.

A solos-only small group tour solves the second list without sacrificing the first. You still have your own private room every night. You still have free time built into every day to explore independently, follow your instincts, or simply sit in a café and watch the world go by. But you also have a group of like-minded travellers to share meals with, explore alongside, and debrief with at the end of the day over a glass of something cold.

Like-Minded People Make All the Difference

One of the most common concerns people have about group tours is the group itself. What if you don’t connect with anyone? What if you’re surrounded by couples who aren’t interested in meeting new people? What if you feel like the odd one out?

On a Two’s a Crowd tour, that anxiety disappears on the first night. Because everyone in the room made the same decision you did — to travel solo, to seek out adventure, to experience the world without waiting for the perfect travelling companion to materialise.

There are no couples managing their own dynamics. No families with competing priorities. Just a group of individuals — typically between 10 and 15 people — who all share a love of travel, an openness to new experiences, and the willingness to see the world on their own terms.

The conversations that flow from that common ground are extraordinary. Travellers have told us they’ve shared dinners in Morocco with people who became their closest friends. That they’ve laughed until they cried on a bus through Rajasthan with complete strangers. That they’ve found travel companions for their next Two’s a Crowd tour — and the one after that.

Shared Experiences Create Deeper Connections

There’s something about shared experience that accelerates human connection in a way that ordinary socialising simply doesn’t. A challenging hike to a viewpoint. A cooking class where everyone makes a mess. A wildlife sighting so extraordinary that the whole group falls silent.

These moments bond people. And when you’re travelling with a group of solo adventurers who are all genuinely present — not distracted by children or caught up in couple dynamics — the quality of those connections is remarkable.

Many of our travellers describe the friendships formed on Two’s a Crowd tours as among the most meaningful of their lives. Not just travel friendships, but real ones — people who stay in touch, who meet up again, who book the next tour together.

Solo Travel Becomes Effortless

One of the great underrated pleasures of a well-organised group tour is the complete disappearance of logistical stress. No booking accommodation. No researching transport. No worrying about whether you’ve got the right visa, the right currency, the right itinerary for the time of year.

At Two’s a Crowd, every detail is taken care of — from your own private room every night to transfers between destinations, from expert local guides to a dedicated Australian Tour Host who travels with you throughout. You arrive knowing everything is handled. You explore knowing someone has your back. You go to bed knowing tomorrow is already sorted.

For people who usually travel independently, the discovery that you can have this level of ease without sacrificing the quality and authenticity of the experience is genuinely revelatory.

It’s the Perfect First Step — and the Perfect Ongoing Way to Travel

For first-time solo travellers, a Two’s a Crowd tour offers something invaluable: a safe, structured, genuinely enjoyable introduction to solo travel that removes every point of anxiety while delivering every point of joy.

For seasoned solo travellers, it offers something equally valuable: a community of people who understand exactly why you travel this way, combined with access to destinations and experiences that would be difficult or impossible to arrange independently.

Many of our travellers come back tour after tour. Not because they couldn’t do it alone — but because this is simply better.

What Our Travellers Say

“I found the trip interesting and eye opening. The other travellers were fabulous and we had a great time together.”

“Having a small group meant that the days were more relaxed and flexible and I really felt spoilt and looked after.”

“It’s the first time I have travelled solo and I was pleasantly surprised to find a bunch of people that all got on so well.”

“I would never have travelled to Vietnam or Cambodia on my own. Best holiday I’ve been on.”

These aren’t cherry-picked exceptions. They’re representative of what happens when the right people travel together in the right way.

Ready to Travel Solo, But Never Alone?

Two’s a Crowd has been creating exclusively solo traveller tours since 2012 — and we’ve spent over a decade proving that the best travel experiences happen when like-minded people share them.

Our current tours span four continents — from the temples of India and Morocco’s Sahara desert to the wildlife of East Africa, the highlands of Sri Lanka, and the fjords of Scandinavia.

Browse all current Two’s a Crowd tours →

Your people are out there. They’re already booked on your next tour. They just don’t know it yet.

The post Solo But Never Alone: The Joy of Travelling with Like-Minded People appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

The person who sent it to me was, no doubt, very proud of themselves, but I wasn’t so impressed. You see, the thing that bothered me about that meme was that there are no tigers in Africa, I couldn’t see elephants, tigers and bears, it’s not possible, not in Africa anyway. And that’s the thing about heading out on a wildlife safari, and why it’s so important to do your research before you go, different wildlife is native to different parts of the world and depending on what you want to see, you want to make sure you end up in the right place. You know that, of course but this becomes vitally important when it comes to booking your wildlife safari.

Imagine turning up in Kenya expecting to see a meerkat, only to discover they don’t exist in Kenya, or looking for orangutans in India or gorillas in South Africa. And what if the wildlife you really want to see does exist in the country you want to go to, but it’s not the best place to see them.

You can technically see polar bears in Iceland, for instance, but they’re not native and it’s quite rare (apparently every now and again a polar bear swims too far and ends up close to the shores of Iceland). So really, if you wanted to see polar bears you should head to Canada or Norway, or even Greenland.

Seeing animals in the wild is awe-inspiring, there is simply nothing quite like it, but you’ll have a much better experience if you do some research before you. So, before you book your next trip, check out these five tips to help you choose a wildlife safari that’s right for you.

Know how you like to travel

We all like different modes of travel and different levels of comfort when we’re on holiday. Safari holidays will cater to all tastes, so it’s good to know what mode of transport and type of accommodation suit your needs best. While many wildlife reserves are in what may often be considered “developing nations”, there is generally no shortage of luxurious lodges. Would you prefer to be in a tent closer to the wildlife, or in a luxury lodge? Neither is right, but one will be more right for you.

Know what animals you want to see

Not all national parks, or all countries offer the same experience when it comes to wildlife so the more you can narrow it down to what you actually want to see, the better experience you’ll have. For instance, if you desperately want to see a tiger, then head to India, are orangutans on your bucket list? Then you’ll need to book a trip to Borneo, or are you desperate to channel Dian Fossey and see gorillas in the wild? Then you’ll want to head to Africa, and more specifically to Uganda, Rwanda or the Congo.

And once you have narrowed the particular wildlife down to a specific country or region, you’ll want to distill it down even further. Some national parks have larger herds of particular animals, Amboseli in Kenya, for instance is known for its elephant herds while Lake Nakaru is a great place to see rhinos.

Know what you want to do

Do you want to volunteer overseas? Take epic photos? Have a family adventure? There are tours that focus on volunteering, tours that focus on photography, tours that focus on experiencing as much wildlife as you can, tours that focus on hiking… The list is endless. You can visit coffee plantations, unbelievable water falls or stunning beaches alongside all that wildlife viewing. Thinking about what else you might like to do before you book means you’ll be better placed to pick the right experience for you.

Just because someone else spent five days chasing the Big 5 in the Masai Mara, doesn’t mean you will want to do the same. You might prefer to spend two days on a beach or in a resort swimming pool, two days on Safari and a day visiting local communities. Don’t be tempted to recreate someone else’s holiday unless that really is the way you like to travel and mirrors the things you are interested in.

Know what experiences you want

Before you pick a tour or organize your overseas adventure, think about your likes and dislikes and what travelling means to you. If you want to add a trek or a walking safari, be sure to factor that into where you travel to. Do you want to be able to bathe elephants, or take a walk through a wildlife reserve? Or do you want to observe from the safety of a vehicle? Do you want to explore local markets or spend time in a local village? There are many ways to see and experience wildlife and different cultures; thinking about what you might like to incorporate into your trip before you leave will help ensure you get the most from your adventure.

Who will you go with?

Because you’re here, we’re going to assume you’re a solo traveller, but more broadly, how do you want your travel to feel? Do you want to travel with a large group? A small group, on a private tour, or do you want to make your own way around? In some places it is possible to self-drive through national parks, in others you will need to have a qualified guide.

There are many different types of safaris that cater to all kinds of groups, there are different types of groups and tours that either allow you to join with other travellers or to create your own bespoke tour.

There are so many choices when it comes to planning your safari, but it really comes down to knowing yourself, knowing how you like to travel and knowing what you want to see. A little bit of research at the start will ensure you have the best experience possible – for you.

Ready for your own wildlife adventure? Two’s a Crowd runs exclusively solo traveller safaris across East Africa, South Africa, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka — small groups, your own room, expert guides, and low single supplements. Browse our wildlife and safari tours →

Diane Squires is writer and tour host with Two’s a Crowd.

The post How to choose a wildlife safari that’s right for you appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

But that same liberation can make it surprisingly easy to slip into habits that leave you feeling sluggish, heavy, and less than your best. The all-you-can-eat hotel breakfast. The extra glass of wine at dinner because you’re on holiday. The long days on buses that have you barely moving before lunch.

Staying healthy while travelling doesn’t require iron willpower or giving up the pleasures of the journey. It just requires a few simple, practical habits — ones that will leave you feeling more energetic, more present, and genuinely better equipped to make the most of every day.

Here are five tips from our team that work anywhere in the world.

1. Stay Hydrated — and Make It Easy

Dehydration is one of the most common and most overlooked travel health issues. When you’re sightseeing in the heat, sitting on long coach journeys, or adjusting to a new climate, your body needs significantly more water than usual — and it’s easy to forget when you’re focused on what’s around you.

The practical solution is simple: bring a good reusable water bottle and make refilling it a habit. In countries where tap water isn’t safe to drink, ask your tour guide or hotel if they can provide a large shared water bottle rather than individual plastic ones — better for your wallet, better for the environment, and much more convenient.

Be mindful of sugary drinks. Local sodas and sweetened juices are everywhere and can be tempting, especially in the heat, but they add empty calories and don’t hydrate nearly as effectively as water. Save those for an occasional treat rather than a default.

A good rule of thumb: if you’re feeling tired or getting a headache on a long day of sightseeing, drink water before reaching for coffee or food. Dehydration is often the culprit.

2. Be Smart About Food — Without Missing Out

Food is one of the great joys of travel, and we’d never suggest you approach it with anxiety or restriction. Trying local cuisine — properly, adventurously, and enthusiastically — is one of the defining pleasures of any trip.

But there’s a difference between adventurous eating and careless eating. A few practical guidelines will keep you well without dampening the joy:

Choose busy local restaurants over tourist-focused ones — high turnover means fresher food and more reliable standards. Your tour guide or hotel staff will always know the best places.

Stick to bottled water in countries where tap water isn’t safe, and always check the seal on the cap before drinking. In many countries, restaurants will try to serve tap water to tourists — it’s fine to politely ask for bottled.

At the hotel breakfast, resist the default of processed white bread and jam every morning. Most hotel buffets also offer fruit, yoghurt, eggs, and wholegrain options — a better start to the day that will give you far more energy for the sightseeing ahead.

Fresh fruit from a local market is one of the best travel snacks in the world — cheap, delicious, culturally interesting, and far better for you than the chips and chocolate from the tour bus stop. If your hotel breakfast includes fruit, take some with you for the day — most hotels are happy for guests to do so.

Pack a small travel pharmacy — a course of Imodium, some oral rehydration sachets, and a basic pain reliever. An upset stomach is not uncommon when travelling to new culinary cultures and is usually easily managed. It doesn’t have to ruin your trip.

3. Keep Moving — Travel is Actually Great Exercise

One of the things people often don’t realise until they get home is how much they actually moved on holiday. Walking through a medina, climbing a fortress, exploring a market — travel is naturally active in a way that everyday life often isn’t.

Lean into it. A few practical ways to keep moving on tour:

Choose walking tours wherever possible — you see more, absorb more, and get your step count up without feeling like you’re exercising. Almost every destination Two’s a Crowd visits includes guided walking exploration as part of the itinerary.

Start your day with movement — even a short walk before breakfast, some simple stretches in your room, or a few laps of the hotel pool makes a meaningful difference to your energy levels for the day ahead.

Use the hotel gym if there is one — not for a gruelling workout, but for 20-30 minutes to keep your body moving on longer stays.

Try activities you wouldn’t normally do at home — a sunrise camel trek in the Sahara, a bicycle ride through Vietnamese rice paddies, a hike to a viewpoint in Sri Lanka. These aren’t just sightseeing opportunities — they’re genuinely wonderful ways to be active while having the time of your life.

The key is to avoid the trap of long sedentary stretches — when you’re sitting on a coach for a few hours, take the opportunity at each stop to walk around, stretch, and breathe some fresh air.

4. Prioritise Sleep — It Changes Everything

Sleep is the most underrated travel health factor of all. When you’re excited and stimulated by new environments, it can be tempting to stay up late every night and push through on limited rest. For a few days this is fine. Over two or three weeks it accumulates.

A few practical sleep tips for travellers:

Keep your sleep environment cool and dark — pack a travel eye mask and consider earplugs, particularly in busy cities.

Be sensible with alcohol close to bedtime — it helps you fall asleep but dramatically reduces sleep quality, leaving you more tired rather than less.

Give yourself one or two early nights per week — even on exciting tours, a night where you’re in bed by 9:30pm and genuinely rested makes a remarkable difference to your energy for the rest of the week.

Manage jet lag actively — get into the local time zone as quickly as possible on arrival, get natural light in the morning, and resist the temptation to nap for long periods during the day.

5. Be Thoughtful About Alcohol

This is perhaps the trickiest tip to give because the honest answer is different for everyone. Travel and a celebratory glass of wine, a cold beer after a hot day’s sightseeing, or a local spirit over dinner are perfectly compatible — and often one of the pleasures of experiencing a new culture.

But it’s worth being conscious of how easily daily drinking can creep into a travel routine. Wine at lunch, a cocktail before dinner, wine with dinner — the calories add up quickly, the sleep quality suffers, and the energy levels the next morning reflect it.

A few things that work well: alternate alcoholic drinks with water, particularly in hot climates where dehydration amplifies alcohol’s effects. Look for non-alcoholic alternatives that are local and interesting — fresh lime soda in India, fresh coconut water in Southeast Asia, fresh-pressed juices in Morocco. Make the sunset an activity rather than a default drinking session — a walk to a viewpoint, a boat ride, a stroll through the old town as the light changes are often more memorable than the bar.

None of this is about abstinence — it’s about being intentional, so that the pleasures of the trip are genuinely pleasurable rather than leaving you feeling flat.

Healthy Travel is Happy Travel

The common thread through all five of these tips is the same: small, sustainable habits that support your body without getting in the way of the adventure. You don’t have to choose between travelling well and staying well — they’re entirely compatible.

And when you’re travelling with Two’s a Crowd, a lot of the health-supporting structure is already built in. Included meals mean you’re not constantly scrambling for food. Expert local guides mean you’re always in safe, trusted hands. Built-in walking and activity means you’re moving without even thinking about it. And your own private room every night means the sleep is yours to protect.

Browse our current solo travel tours →

By Alice Bastable, Melbourne-based dietitian, and Diane Squires, Tour Host with Two’s a Crowd.

The post Five tips to stay healthy while travelling appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

Yes, India is a sensory experience like no other. It’s busy, vibrant, and beautifully chaotic in the very best way. And with a little preparation, your first trip to India will be one of the most extraordinary experiences of your life.

Here are seven practical tips from our team — including our India tour host Diane Squires, who has led many Two’s a Crowd groups through this remarkable country — to help you make the most of every moment.

Limited Places Available: We still have a few places remaining on our Royal Rajasthan & the Golden Triangle solo tour departing October 2026. If India is on your bucket list, this is your year.

1. Learn a Few Words of Hindi — Locals Will Love You for It

With 22 official languages spoken across India, the country is extraordinarily linguistically diverse. English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas, but knowing even a handful of Hindi words goes a long way — and always raises a smile.

Here are a few to get you started:

• Namaste — Hello (also a respectful greeting with hands pressed together)
• Shukriya / Dhanyawaad — Thank you
• Kripaya — Please
• Kitna Rupiya? — How much?
• Acha — Good / OK / Alright (endlessly versatile!)
• Thik Hai — That’s fine / Alright
• Madat chahiye — I need help
• Ek bottle pani dedo — One bottle of water, please

Even attempting these few words transforms interactions — shopkeepers light up, restaurant staff become more attentive, and you’ll find doors opening that might otherwise stay closed.

2. Handle Money Simply and Smartly

India is genuinely excellent value for money — the question is managing your cash sensibly in a country where digital and cash economies operate side by side.

In major cities, ATMs are widely available and work reliably with international cards. In smaller towns, villages, and rural areas, cash is king — so always have a reasonable supply of smaller denomination notes (₹10, ₹50, and ₹100 notes are most useful for rickshaws, markets, and tips).

Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and registered exchange offices. Avoid unofficial exchangers.

India’s government-approved shops and emporiums are excellent places to buy quality crafts and textiles at fixed, fair prices — a reassuring option if you’d prefer not to bargain.

3. Embrace the Food — With a Little Common Sense

Indian cuisine is one of the world’s great culinary traditions — and eating your way through the country is one of the greatest pleasures of any visit. From buttery dal makhani in Delhi to fresh seafood curries in Kerala, from Rajasthani laal maas to the extraordinary thali plates of Gujarat — the food alone is worth the trip.

A few sensible guidelines will keep you well and happy throughout:

Stick to restaurants recommended by your guide, hotel, or trusted guidebooks — India has a huge variety of excellent, clean, and affordable local restaurants. Bottled water is your friend — always check the seal on the cap is unbroken. And give your digestive system a few days to adjust to the new spices before going all-in on the most adventurous dishes.

If you do want to explore street food, our tip is to look for stalls with high turnover — food that’s been sitting around is more of a risk than food being cooked fresh in front of you. Freshly peeled fruits, freshly fried snacks, and anything boiled are generally the safest bets.

Pack some Imodium just in case — an upset stomach is not uncommon for first-time visitors and is easily managed. It won’t ruin your trip.

4. Know When to Go — India’s Climate is Incredibly Varied

India is a vast and climatically diverse country — which means there’s genuinely always somewhere worth visiting, no matter the time of year. The key is matching your destination to the season.

October to March is generally the best time to visit the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) and Rajasthan — pleasantly warm days, cool evenings, and beautifully clear skies. This is exactly why our Royal Rajasthan tour departs in October.

April to June sees temperatures climb dramatically across northern and central India — not the best time for first-timers in these regions, though perfect for high-altitude areas like Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.

July to September brings the monsoon season — transforming the landscape into a lush, vivid green but making travel in some areas challenging.

Pack layers for the evenings even in October — temperatures in Rajasthan can drop considerably after dark.

5. Getting Around is an Adventure in Itself

India’s transport network is enormous, remarkably well-connected, and endlessly entertaining. Getting from place to place is half the experience.

Trains are the most authentic and often the most enjoyable way to travel between cities — India’s rail network is one of the largest in the world and offers everything from local services to luxury overnight trains. Booking in advance is essential for popular routes.

Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are the perfect way to navigate cities and markets — always agree on a price before you get in, or insist on the meter. In major cities, Uber and Ola (India’s equivalent) take the negotiation completely out of the equation and are excellent value.

One important note: India is a large country and distances between towns are often longer than they appear on a map. Factor in traffic, road conditions, and the general magnificent unhurriedness of Indian life when planning your days.

When you travel with Two’s a Crowd, all transport between destinations is arranged — so you can simply sit back, watch the landscape unfold, and enjoy the journey.

6. Learn the Cultural Customs — You’ll Be Welcomed Warmly

India is one of the world’s most culturally rich and spiritually diverse countries — and its people are extraordinarily welcoming to visitors who show a basic respect for local customs.

A few things worth knowing:

At religious sites — remove your shoes before entering temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and other sacred spaces. Many also require covering your head with a scarf. Modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) is always appreciated and often required.

Greetings — a simple Namaste with hands pressed together is universally welcomed and shows genuine respect.

Photography — always ask before photographing people, particularly in rural areas and at religious sites. Most people are delighted to be photographed — but asking first makes all the difference.

Bargaining — in markets and with street vendors, gentle haggling is completely normal and even expected. Stay calm, stay pleasant, and enjoy the exchange. It’s one of the most fun parts of shopping in India.

7. Travel Safely and Confidently

India is a remarkably safe destination for travellers when approached with the same common sense you’d apply anywhere in the world.

Travel insurance is essential — make sure yours covers medical treatment, travel delays, and lost luggage. Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa separately from the originals.

In the evenings, use trusted transport rather than walking alone in unfamiliar areas — your hotel can always arrange a reputable taxi or you can use Uber or Ola.

Emergency numbers in India:

• All emergencies: 112
• Police: 100
• Ambulance: 102
• Fire: 101

When you travel with Two’s a Crowd, your Tour Host and local guide are with you throughout — handling logistics, navigating local customs, and making sure you always feel confident and well looked after. It’s one of the great advantages of travelling with a small group of like-minded solo adventurers rather than navigating it all alone.

India Is Waiting — and So Are a Few Spare Places on Our October Tour

India is one of those destinations that changes people. Those who go rarely stop talking about it. The Taj Mahal at sunrise. The tigers of Ranthambore. The lantern-lit ghats. The colour and chaos of the bazaars. The extraordinary warmth of every person you meet.

We still have a few places remaining on our Royal Rajasthan & the Golden Triangle solo tour, departing 2nd October 2026. This is an exclusively solo traveller tour — 16 days through Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and beyond, with your own private room every night and a dedicated Two’s a Crowd Host throughout.

View the full itinerary and book your place here →

Don’t leave it too long — this departure is guaranteed and the remaining places won’t last.

The post 7 India Travel Tips Every First-Time Visitor Needs to Know appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

If you’re planning on travelling solo, as so many people do these days, you’re no doubt feeling equal parts anxious and excited.

But we’re here to help ensure you have the best time you possibly can. Whether you’re travelling as part of a solo tour or on your own, these 10 tips will help make your journey is that little bit easier.

10 things you should know before travelling alone.

It’s not uncommon to have a mini meltdown.

You’ve seen your friends’ travel photos scattered across Facebook and when they arrived home, no doubt they gushed about all the wonderful experiences they had. I’m sure they had an amazing time. But travel is also hard work. It’s tough arriving in a country where you don’t speak the language, don’t understand the local customs, have to figure out the local currency every time you want to buy a bottle of water, or anything else for that matter. And it’ ok to be frustrated by this.

You’re not alone. Every traveller I have ever met has had these same feelings at some point during their journey. Particularly if it’s their first trip and they are travelling alone. But, and there’s a big but. These feelings of angst and anxiety will pass. You’ll settle into your new surroundings, meet people on the road, get used to the money and pick up all kinds of travel tips. By the end of your first trip you’ll be thinking about where you want to go next.

A few local words from the destination you’re travelling to.

One of the beautiful things about travel is learning something new about the world around us, and that includes picking up some new words. We always recommend you learn at least the basics – hello, goodbye, thankyou, excuse me, cheers and toilet. I also like to add ‘how much’ and ‘that’s too expensive’.

My favourite words are ‘oi chua o’i’ – “oh my God” in Vietnamese – used whenever I’m trying to haggle for a better deal on something.

Don’t worry if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, just have a go. It’s so much more pleasant to be able to say ‘hello’ or ‘thank you’ to someone in their local language, and you’ll generally be greeted with a smile simply for making the effort.

How to manage your money for the country that you’re going to.

There’s no denying that travel can be expensive and financially confusing! Should you use ATMs, credit cards, change your money into the local currency before you go or take extra cash and exchange it at your destination as you go. Everyone will have a different view on this and the simple answer is, it depends on where you are travelling to. We’ve written more extensively on this here, but essentially every country is different when it comes to the optimum way to access your money.

In Myanmar and Cuba for instance banks can be hard to come by and so you’ll want to make sure you have extra cash that you can exchange. In Cuba you can’t actually use many Australian bank cards – this is changing slowly but it’s always better to have a little extra cash with you. In Cambodia withdrawal fees can be excessive, while in Vietnam there are ATMs everywhere, and many have very low or no fees.

Our recommendation is to always research the country you are travelling to before you leave home to get advice on accessing money. And if you can’t find anything online, or get confused, ask your travel agent or friends who have travelled there – you know how much we all love to talk about travel!

A little bit about the local cuisine

You really don’t want to arrive in a new country and realise you don’t like the local food and your food options are limited. For many travellers, food is an important part of understanding the local country and its people. You’ll have a much better travel experience if you understand a little bit about the food before you go, and know what you might experience.
For instance, I don’t like pork, simply don’t eat it. And I know when I’m travelling through Germany or Austria that pork is generally a big part of their food culture. But I know this, I know to expect that my meal choices in the great food halls in these places will probably be limited and that I may not like the food experience as much as I’ll enjoy other aspects of travelling through these countries.

Yourself.

Unless your solo travel is part of a solo adventure with other like-minded solos on a tour, chances are you’ll be spending a lot of time on your own. From breakfast to dinner, and activities in between you’ll be experiencing everything on your own, which means you get to do exactly what you want to do!

No checking in with someone else, or compromising on how you want to spend your day. Knowing what activities you enjoy and what things you really want to see, rather than simply following the advice of other travellers will give you a far better travel experience. Like to cook? You might enjoy a cooking class in Tuscany. Love shopping? Research the best shopping areas in the cities you’re headed to.

Also think about how you like to travel, do you prefer slow travel where you get to spend days in one city really soaking it in or do you want to see as much as you can while you’re there. Neither mode of travel is better, but one will be better for you.

How to stay in touch with family

All travellers, whether they’re on a tour, travelling with friends, travelling with a partner or family, or travelling solo miss home at some point. It may be that you’ve suddenly remembered something you need to ask someone to do or that you simply want to let people at home know you’re safe. There are so many ways you can keep in touch with family and friends these days, from Skype to Facebook messenger to phone calls and email. The trick is to know before you leave how you plan to stay in touch and to make sure you have all the relevant contact details to stay in touch in that way.

I’m a big user of messenger, I call family and friends from all over the world using free wifi (generally available in hotels, cafes and restaurants) but I know others who use Whatsapp and others too who use skype or even Instagram messages. In China, you’ll most likely need to use WeChat.

It’s far easier to have these things set up before you leave home. That way, you can let your family and friends know how you’ll be keeping in touch and if there’s an emergency, they’ll know how to contact you.

How to get around

Gone are the days when you need to pull out a huge map to help you navigate your way around a new city. These days, everything you need is on your phone (that is, if you have a smart phone). You can download relevant maps before you leave, pin destinations and plot routes.

There are a range of apps (such as GPSMyCity and CityMaps2Go) that will give you access to maps of cities from all around the world and most can be accessed offline – no need for wifi.

Think too about how you’re going to get from one place to another, will you be taking trains, buses, walking? Your concierge can generally help you with these questions, but it’s good to have an idea of how far away things are, how you like to travel – do you prefer bus or train and how far is too far for you to walk. Again, each of us has different preferences and knowing the answers to these questions before you go will ensure your trip runs a lot more smoothly.

Which apps will help you get the most out of your travels.

Look up travel apps in your internet browser and you’ll get about 2,370,000,000 results in 0.59 seconds. I know, I just tried it. You don’t need or want all those apps. But there are some apps that are really helpful when it comes to travelling.

We’ve talked about travel maps above, but there are a few others I always recommend – and some that your phone comes with that you may not have thought about using for travel. I love the xe currency exchange app. I can keep an eye on the currency rate of the country I’m in and can easily convert the local currency into Aussie dollars so I know how much I’m spending. The app can be used offline for basic conversions but only updates to the latest exchange rate when you’re online.

I add my destinations to my weather app and clock apps before I leave home so I can keep an eye on the weather (very handy for packing) and will always know the time difference. Remember too that while you’re travelling you can see at a glance what time it is at home simply by going into your clock app and tapping ‘world clock’, very helpful for knowing what time to contact the folks at home.

You’ll also want to make sure you’ve got the relevant app for your preferred method of contacting people back home. It’s far easier to use the Messenger app than to have to go into Facebook online every time you want to speak with someone.

How to look out for scams

We want you to have an amazing time when you travel, want you to relax, enjoy the country, see the best in people and not be afraid of everyone who talks to you. But… You need to be aware that there are many travel scams out there. People will tell you about the gypsies in Italy who will throw a ‘baby’ at you and when you go to catch it they’ll steal your wallet. Or the stall holders in India who will sell you a shirt in its packaging and when you get it home, it’s nothing more than a shirt front with a collar.

There are any number of scams all around the world. So how do you avoid them?

Keep your wits about you, stay calm and don’t believe everything everyone says. Plus it’s ok to simply say no and to keep walking.

Always keep an eye on your valuables (and while we’re at it leave the bling at home, you won’t need it on your travels and it will only make you more of a target for would-be thieves, the less you have to worry about when travelling the better). Know where your wallet is at all times and keep your bag zipped up. In crowds always keep a hand on your wallet and phone.

You don’t want to let the thought of a scam worry you so much you forget to have a great time, but you do want to be prepared.

If you’re in a country that still uses cash, make sure you have smaller notes so you can pay the agreed price and won’t need change that can leave the way for unscrupulous store owners to feign not having change or give you back less than you’re owed.

How to take a selfie

Ok, we’re being a little tongue in cheek with this one, but only a little. There will come a time when you’re travelling that you’ll really want to get a photo of yourself in front of a particular icon or building. You know, that shot of you on the same seat Princess Diana sat on in front of the Taj Mahal or a photo of you at the Eifel Tower.

You can ask someone to take it for you, but what if there’s no one around? Do you really want to miss having that shot? Learn before you go how to take a selfie so that you can take those images yourself. And practice!

If there’s someone there, great, ask them to help you out. But if not, put your new skills to work and go back with the kinds of photos that will make your friends and family envious!

Travelling alone doesn’t have to mean going it alone. Two’s a Crowd has been creating exclusively solo traveller tours since 2012 — small groups of like-minded adventurers, your own private room every night, and a dedicated Tour Host throughout. Browse our solo travel tours →

Diane Squires is a writer and tour host with Two’s a Crowd.

The post 10 Things you should know before travelling alone appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

Rajasthan is one of India’s most exotic destinations (and that’s saying something for a country that is famous for its intriguing sites). You might know it as the home of the Thar Desert or Jaipur, the famous pink city. Rajasthan, a state in the north of India, literally translates to Land of Kings and is so called as it was once ruled by Monarchs.

This rich history oozes from the remnants of forts and palaces throughout Rajasthan, a state that is soaked in royal culture and unique and famous cuisines. Rajasthani food is highly influenced by a dearth of water and vegetables. The hunting expeditions of the rich and the lifestyle of local warriors of years gone by has given rise to a whole range of innovative dishes and ingredients that can last for several days.

Whether you love spicy food or have a craving for desserts, Rajasthan has a variety of tantalizing dishes in its arsenal for you. Here are the five best dishes to try while traveling in this arid state.

Gatte ki Sabzi (Gram flour dumplings)
Typical Rajasthani food platters are incomplete without this dish. Steamed and lightly fried dumplings made with gram flour, this dish is served with a tangy gravy of tomato, buttermilk and spices. There are, of course, variations on this cuisine across Rajasthan. Where one is tangy, another will boast the richness of dry fruits. Enjoy it with steamed Jeera (cumin) rice or Rotis (Indian flatbread).

Ker Sangri (Wild beans and berry)
Legend has it that long ago when Rajasthan was hit with a famine, its people found a kind of wild berry and wild beans that flourished during this grim time when all the vegetation had died. The villagers took these vegetables home and due to the scarcity of water cooked them in vegetable oil with spices. They ate this concoction with their bajra (Pearl Millet) rotis. Today, this tangy and peppery cuisine is cooked with buttermilk or water and served as a side dish – trust us, when we say, it’s wonderful.

Besan ki barfi
Oof! With innumerable desserts from Rajasthan, it’s difficult to choose just one as the best. But this one manages to inch out its counterparts to come out on top. This royal dessert will impress even the fussiest food connoisseurs. Made with gram flour and also known as Mohanthaal, this dense milk-based sweet has a chewy texture and leaves a grainy flavour in your mouth. Plus, the aroma and taste of ghee (clarified butter) adds cherry to the cake!

Laal Maans (Red Meat)
Now for something for all the non-vegetarians–Laal Maans (Red Meat) is inspired by the color imbued by red chilies and is one of the most famous non-vegetarian dishes in the predominantly vegetarian state. Traditionally, laal maans was made with wild boar or deer. Today, it consists of marinated spicy mutton cooked on a low heat in a fiery sauce of red chillies, garlic paste, sliced onions and curds. You can’t ignore this pungent yet scrumptious crowd favourite.

Another variation of this dish is Mohan Maans, cooked with fresh milk, ground spices that include poppy seeds, cardamom and lemon and enjoyed best with dry fruit flatbread.

Daal Baati Churma
We’ve left the best for last, Daal Baati Churma is the state’s classic signature dish. Baatis are hard, unleavened breads traditionally cooked over firewood or a gas stove. They are served with Panchkuti Daal (a delightful curry consisting of five different types of lentils), ghee (clarified butter) for dipping and churma (coarsely ground wheat mixture crushed and cooked in ghee and jaggery – a kind of sugarcane – or sugar). From start to finish, you’ll find all the ingredients of this dish cooked in ghee – beginning from frying masala in ghee to adding additional ghee before serving. This combination of savory and sweet is a must try.

Have we got your mouth watering yet? We know we said five, but these four deserve a special mention also.

Rajasthani kadhi
India has numerous variations of spiced yoghurt curry. While in some areas it’s cooked with a tangy flavor, others balance sweet and savory palettes. And Rajasthan has a special version of it. Made with gram flour, cumin, chili, garlic and curry leaves, this is a pungent and spicy curry best served with steamed rice.

Pyaaz Kachori (Onion deep fried breads)
Pyaaz ki kachori originated in Jodhpur and is now eaten all over the state, mainly as a breakfast snack. They are flaky, deep-fried breads made from plain flour and stuffed with a spicy onion mixture with spices like fennel, cumin, turmeric and chilli powder. Usually, kachoris are served with coriander and mint or date and tamarind chutney.

Mawa kachori
A sweet version of deep-fried breads, Mawa Kachori is filled with dry fruits and khoya (thickened milk), deep fried and then dipped in sugar syrup. A must try dessert after lunch or dinner. If you say you don’t have a sweet tooth, we say you haven’t tried this one yet.

Aam ki Launji (Raw Mango pickle)
An instant pickle made of raw mangoes, this is a sure heat beater. It is prepared with fennel and nigella with a sweet and sour gravy texture. Soft mango chunks are added to enhance the flavour. It can also be savoured with any Indian sabzi, giving the entire meal an extra edge.

So there you have it, just a few dishes to try while travelling through the amazing sites of Rajasthan.

Want to try these dishes for yourself? Check out our tour on the Palace on Wheels and explore some of the highlight of India.

By Diane Squires and Gunjit Arora

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It was an awesome conversation all about solo travel, but what really struck me about that interview, and what has stayed with me were the words of one of our solo travellers who agreed to be interviewed by Catriona.

Natalie, who travelled with Two’s a Crowd to South America, said about taking the leap to solo travel “I realised it was time I pulled on my big girls’ pants…”

We can all relate to Nat’s sentiments, there are things we all say we’re going to do, someday. And for many people that one thing is travel.

These days, with the prevalence of social media it’s even harder to ignore the travel bug. We see family and friends leaving for amazing adventures, follow their photographic journeys through the highlights of far flung destinations and wish we too could be doing that.

And so many people will tell you it’s easy, just get out and see the world, “pull on those big girl pants, or older man’s slacks”, and just go.

But the reality is solo travel can be daunting. It can seem like the only people who travel on their own are aged in their early 20s, taking Instagram-worthy photos at every stop.

While it may seem like that, we’re here to tell you that’s actually not the case. There are millions of people around the travelling solo over the age of 40.

There are some definite advantages to hitting the road on your own: never having to compromise on where you want to go, deciding on your own itinerary, being able to travel at your own pace, not having to see that museum or famous icon just because it’s on your travel partner’s bucket list…

The thing is, when you’re travelling solo you can do just as you please and what’s not to love about that?

But if you’re struggling with actually making the leap, here are some things to consider that will have you booking a trip in no time.

<<Enjoy the experience of travel solo throughout the best places in the world with Two’s a crowd’s tours. More details here!>>

Start small

Travel doesn’t have to mean long flights, months on the road or overspending on your credit card. It can mean renting a house somewhere local, or travelling to a nearby country for just a few days. Many of our solo travellers start with a short trip not too far away, Cambodia perhaps, or Fiji. They get to see if they like travelling, what aspects of travel they like or don’t like and how they cope getting out of their comfort zone. In our experience, the majority of first-time travellers come back time and again, with us, on their own self-guided solo adventure, with friends they met on our tour, or a combination of all three.

The point is they made the leap, they booked that first trip and went.

Think about where you really want to

I can hear you yelling at me, well that’s obvious, but hear me out. As a solo traveller it’s really up to you where you want to go. You might have seen a photo years ago that you keep coming back to. Some place that you’ve always wanted to go to but have never been able to convince anyone else to come with you. Think about that place and imagine yourself there. How does that feel to you? It may look beautiful in a photograph, but the idea of actually being in that place may not be quite as appealing as you first thought.

Think too about how you like to travel. There is no point joining a walking tour if you hate walking or visiting Fiji if you hate the beach.

You can find more tips for finding a tour to suit you here.

Safety

Everyone will ask you whether an area is safe, particularly when you’re travelling alone. Do your research before you go. Read travel blogs and articles to find out what areas are safe and what areas you should avoid. You might be surprised once you start researching that places you never would have thought safe to travel to are actually some of the friendliest and safest in the world.

Wherever you go though, keep your wits about you Always know exactly where your valuables are and be aware of your surroundings.

Making friends on the road

As we get older it can get harder to make new friends, and travel is no different. But don’t be put off. Join a local cooking class or salsa class, interact with locals and other travellers in cities, ask questions, engage people. People are generally more relaxed and happier when travelling, it’s a great time to strike up a conversation to get advice on things to see or places to go.

And who knows? You might just make a new friend.

Think about joining a tour

Travelling with a tour group, like Two’s a Crowd, means you don’t have to do anything alone. On a tour you’ll find like minded people to chat to and to take that photo of you standing in front of your bucketlist item. You’ll have someone to share the adventure with and be able to pick up tips easily from other travellers for your next adventure.

However you choose to travel and wherever you decide to go, take the leap and go. We’re sure you won’t regret it.

Diane Squires is a writer and tour host with Two’s a Crowd.

The post How to take the Leap to travel solo when you’re over 40 appeared first on Two's A Crowd.

It is the seventh largest country in the world, the second most populous country and the largest populated democracy in the world, but all that aside, from a travel perspective there is simply so much to see and do that knowing where to start can be at best confusing, at worst absolutely daunting.

So if you’re thinking about heading to this fascinating place, we’ve pulled together the five places you shouldn’t miss on your first trip to India.

Don’t be daunted by the vastness of the land, or the images of city crowding and chaos. India is the kind of country that weaves a spell so tight you’ll be thinking about the amazing sights and smells long after you’ve returned home.

<<Want to see India for yourself? Join Two’s a Crowd on a solos only tour through India onboard the luxury Palace on Wheels train. Details here!>>

1. Varanasi

There is a magical moment when you first set foot on the Ghats that wind along the river’s edge and look out on to the Ganges in Varanasi, particularly if you arrive at sunrise.

The early golden light adds a certain kind of beauty to the river here, which only enhances the spiritual sense of the place.

At first light there is also a stillness in the air, a calm over the steps leading down to the Ganges. The steps might be full of tourists all trying to take an early morning cruise along one of the most famous rivers in the world, but there is a hush, a respect of the sacredness of the site.

Throughout the day the 88 Ghats that line the Ganges in Varanasi are alive with activity. Each Ghat has a different focus, a different reason for being. Add to that the touts looking for business, the traders looking to sell their wares and the men here to bathe and the women doing the household washing in the river and you have a thriving river bank teeming with energy.

From the water you get to compare the differences between each of the ghats and really appreciate their beauty. The Manikarnika Ghat, one of the more intriguing, sits next to the primary cremation ground and is the most sacred of the ghats. The pyre here burns constantly as people come from all across India to cremate their loved ones. The surrounding buildings are tinged with the smoke from the pyre, lending an eerie feeling to this part of the Ganges.

By night the ghats light up in a carnival like atmosphere, so you see, really, it doesn’t matter what time of the day you are here, there is always something intriguing to see.

2. Jaipur – The Pink City

There are few cities in the world that compare with Jaipur, a city of remarkable history and cultural buildings and three – that’s right, three – forts watching over it. Indeed at the beginning of this month, UNESCO listed Jaipur ‘the pink city of India’ as a World Heritage site. 

The city centre was painted pink in 1856 to celebrate Prince Albert’s visit to the city and it has been known as the pink city ever since.

The colour may have faded, and some of the walls begun to crack, but this city will weave its charms on you.

Jaipur rounds out the western Golden Triangle, which includes Delhi and Agra, and is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Jantar Mantar and the stunning Amer Fort.

Jantar Mantar is a unique series of 19 astronomical instruments built in the 1700s, including the world’s largest sundial, while Amer Fort is a village in its own right and sits high on a hill just outside Jaipur.

And you see that’s one of the things that makes Jaipur so interesting, aside from the pink walls, it’s the diversity of the city’s attractions.

Don’t miss the Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds. This unique structure – in a country known for its unique structures – forms a striking vista from the street. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the building is said to contain 953 small windows and has a kind of beehive look about it.

3. Streets of Delhi

Streets, in a big city? We know what you’re thinking, but stay with us on this one. The streets of Delhi, of India in general, are simply fascinating. You could lose hours wandering the streets of the old town – Chandni Chowk. All that traffic, trucks, buses, cars and tuk tuks dressed up in the finest colours, streamers and lei, sharing the road with oh so many people and sometimes even cows, yes cows. They’re sacred, of course in India, so the locals very patiently wait for them to pass by.

The streets are alive with activity, colour and movement. There’s food stalls and market stalls and just, well, an abundance of life, of simply being in that place. 

Chandni Chowk was once the grandest marketplace in India. You can still buy silver, saris.. any manner of things here really, and the food is said to be some of the best in Delhi.

While you’re wandering the streets in Chandni Chowk be sure to take in Red Fort and the Jama Masjid, just two of the stunning monuments that make up the 100s of monuments across Delhi.

4. Ranthambore National Park

There are few places left in the world that you can see tigers in the wild. And India just happens to be one of them. There is a real thrill in seeing wildlife in its natural habitat. You’ll sit for hours watching, waiting, looking deep into the forest for signs of wildlife. And that first moment when you get a glimpse of these majestic creatures will stay with you forever.

Of course, there’s more to Ranthambore National Park than the tigers, if you’re lucky you’ll also get to see leopards, monitor lizards, chameleon, Indian porcupine and Indian foxes, just to name a few of the diverse wildlife here.

And as well as the amazing wildlife, simply spending a day in the serenity of the jungle provides a welcome respite from the chaotic streets of India.

5. Taj Mahal

You didn’t really think we could run a list of places to see in India and not include the Taj Mahal did you?

This is one of those icons you’ve seen countless times in photos, in ads, on television and in movies but we promise nothing can prepare you for the real thing. To stand in front of the reflection pond and see the sheer size and beauty of this famous landmark is stunning in every sense of the word.

And as you draw nearer and see the perfect lines; the sleek, cool marble finish and vast expanse of the building and surrounding grounds will leave you speechless.

Built as the ultimate love letter by Shah Jehan to his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal in 1631-48, the Taj Mahal is known as a ‘teardrop on the cheek of time’. Inside this elaborate mausoleum are the tombs of Shah Jehan and Mumtaz Mahal. Most of the beauty of the site is from the gardens inside the walls, but outside the main buildings.

The post Five places you shouldn’t miss on your first trip to India appeared first on Two's A Crowd.